The AODME is a professional association representing the interests of the entire spectrum of osteopathic medical education; it fosters professional and leadership development for its members. A doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO) meets the same requirements as MDs and must complete a residency/internship program. Like MDs, DOs also have the opportunity to specialize in the various branches of medicine.

“It is truly an honor to serve as president of the AODME,” Dr. Mazzola said, “and to assist in delivering on our strategic plan – ‘Move Clinical Osteopathic Medical Education into the Future’ – centering around four key objectives: enhancing communication, expanding educational programs, developing educational leaders and support personnel, and increasing clinical osteopathic medical education.”

Dr. Mazzola, who serves in several other national leadership roles, joined Blue Ridge HealthCare in 2010 to develop the graduate medical education program and subsequently was named Chief Medical Officer in 2011. He oversees the Blue Ridge Medical Group, a multispecialty medical group with more than 100 providers that provides care in Burke, Caldwell and McDowell counties. He also provides acute care oversight of quality and patient safety, the hospitalists’ medical group and graduate medical education.

A graduate of Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, he completed his internship and family practice residency at The Medical Center in Columbus, Ga. He is a diplomat of the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians, a diplomat of the American Board of Family Practice, a fellow of the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians, and a fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians.